Biodiversity Coaltion Panel Presentation

Port Washington’s forests, ponds, salt marshes, and diverse habitats support local wildlife and provide ecosystem services that are critical to protecting and enhancing our quality of life, yet they face growing threats from habitat loss, invasive species, pollution, climate change, and unsustainable land-use practices. The Port Washington Coalition for Biodiversity*, which represents 9 local organizations that steward and oversee the preservation and conservation of the vast majority of wilderness on the Port Washington Peninsula and portions of Roslyn and Manhasset, is working together to protect these key biodiversity areas.

The discussion will be moderated by Transition Town Port Washington and will feature local experts and leaders overseeing the protection of Sands Point Preserve, Hempstead Harbor Woods, and Leeds Pond Preserve. Panelists will explore how these ecosystems support native species, build climate resilience, and contribute to cleaner air and water, while also addressing the threats they face and the conservation strategies being implemented to restore and sustain them. Attendees will gain insight into the science behind local conservation efforts, the challenges of preserving biodiversity in an increasingly developed landscape, and the critical role of community involvement in ensuring the long-term health of these natural areas.

Panel Speakers:

• Jeremiah Bosgang – Executive Director of Sands Point Preserve

• Dr. Hildur Palsdottir – Board Member, Science Museum of Long Island

• Mike Vitti – President, Concerned Long Island Mountain Bikers

• David Jakim – Ecologist, Founder of ReWild Long Island

• Margaret Galbraith – Moderator, President of Transition Town Port Washington

*Port Washington Biodiversity Coalition partners include the Baxter’s Pond Foundation, Concerned Long Island Mountain Bikers, Nassau County Museum of Art, PW Green, ReWild Long Island, Sands Point Preserve, Science Museum of Long Island, Transition Town Port Washington, and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock.

The Coalition was formed in 2022 by Transition Town Port Washington.